The Art of Campaigning: Joint Planners Working at the Intersections of Everything

Authors

• Mary Bell, Beacom College of Computer and Cyber Sciences, Dakota State University
• Edgar M. Hollandsworth, Joint Forces Staff College (JFSC)
• Thomas J. Snukis, Joint Combined Warfighting School (JCWS), Joint Forces Staff College (JFSC)
• Jeffrey Turner, Department of Defense
• Luke P. Bellocchi, Joint Advanced Warfighting School (JAWS), Joint Forces Staff College (JFSC)
• Nicholas Anthony, Joint Combined Warfighting School (JCWS)
• Steve Tribble, 303D Maneuver Enhancement Brigade, U.S. Army
• Chris Botterbusch, Department of Distance Education, U.S. Army War College
• Justin D. Harper, 316th Cavalry Brigade at Fort Moore, Georgia

Abstract

This article explains the evolving concept of military campaigning and the complex role of joint planners in developing and executing Combatant Command Campaign Plans. Modern campaigning encompasses not only combat operations but also persistent activities intended to shape the strategic environment, create favorable conditions, and advance U.S. national objectives. The authors describe how joint planners translate strategic guidance and a combatant commander’s vision into operational approaches by integrating doctrine, operational design, intelligence, assessment, and activities across the strategic, operational, and tactical levels of war. The article also highlights the importance of strategic wargaming, collaboration across combatant commands and external partners, and the integration of global, regional, and functional campaign plans. Because campaign planning is iterative and adaptive, planners must contend with ambiguous or delayed guidance, fragmented staffs, changing strategic conditions, and competing organizational interests. The authors conclude that joint professional military education, including the Joint and Combined Warfighting School and Joint Advanced Warfighting School, should prepare planners to think critically, apply doctrine flexibly, and adapt rapidly to the complex and collaborative demands of campaign planning.